A Quick Look at Concourse B
Stomach rumbling, flight boarding in under an hour, and you’re stuck in O’Hare International Airport’s Concourse B? Fear not, weary traveler! Navigating an airport can be stressful enough without the added pressure of finding a decent meal before you take to the skies. This comprehensive guide is designed to alleviate that stress and provide you with all the information you need to discover the best dining options in ORD Concourse B. Whether you’re craving a quick coffee and pastry, a hearty sit-down meal, or simply a grab-and-go snack to tide you over, Concourse B has something to satisfy every palate and budget. We’ll explore the variety of culinary experiences available, considering factors such as price, speed of service, dietary restrictions, and the overall ambiance of each establishment. Remember, airport offerings are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check hours and availability before you head to the airport. Let’s dive into the delicious world of ORD Concourse B food!
Concourse B at O’Hare is a bustling hub, typically serving as a major thoroughfare for United Airlines and their regional partners. This means the concourse caters to a diverse mix of travelers, from seasoned business professionals jetting off to important meetings to families embarking on long-awaited vacations. The layout of Concourse B is fairly straightforward, making it relatively easy to navigate. You’ll find a mix of gates, shops, and, most importantly, a tempting array of food and beverage options dotted throughout the concourse. Understanding the needs of the Concourse B traveler is key. Business travelers often prioritize speed and convenience, while families may seek out more kid-friendly options. This guide takes all of these considerations into account to help you make the best dining decision for your specific situation. So, relax and prepare to discover the culinary gems hidden within Concourse B.
Dining Delights: A Breakdown of Options
Let’s break down the food offerings into categories to help you easily find what you are looking for in ORD Concourse B food.
Grab-and-Go Goodness: Quick & Casual Choices
When time is of the essence, grabbing a quick and convenient bite is often the only option. Luckily, Concourse B boasts several establishments perfect for those on the run.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Potbelly Sandwich Shop is a reliable choice for a classic, toasted sandwich. With a variety of fillings, from Italian to turkey, they offer a satisfying and relatively affordable meal. The atmosphere is casual and cheerful, although seating can be limited during peak hours.
- Pros: Fast service, customizable sandwiches, reasonably priced, offers salads and soups.
- Cons: Limited seating, can get crowded, not ideal for those seeking a particularly healthy option.
- Ideal For: Travelers with a moderate amount of time, craving a familiar and comforting sandwich.
McDonald’s
A global fast-food giant, McDonald’s needs no introduction. Located in Concourse B, it’s a dependable choice for a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner. While not the most adventurous culinary experience, it offers familiar comfort food at budget-friendly prices.
- Pros: Extremely fast service, low prices, recognizable menu, open early.
- Cons: Can be very crowded, not the healthiest option, can be noisy.
- Ideal For: Travelers on a tight budget, in a serious rush, or traveling with children.
Newsstands and Kiosks
Throughout Concourse B, you’ll find various newsstands and kiosks offering pre-made sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. These are the ultimate option for speed and convenience.
- Pros: Extremely fast, convenient locations, wide selection of snacks and drinks.
- Cons: Can be pricier than other options, quality may vary, limited healthy choices.
- Ideal For: Travelers with literally no time to spare, needing a quick snack or drink.
Sit-Down Restaurants: Relax, Refuel, and Recharge
If you have a bit more time to spare, a sit-down restaurant can provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the airport. Concourse B offers a few options where you can relax, refuel, and recharge before your flight.
O’Brien’s Restaurant & Bar
O’Brien’s Restaurant & Bar offers a classic pub experience. With a menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers, it’s a good place to find something that everyone in your party can enjoy. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, with televisions often showing sporting events.
- Pros: Relaxing atmosphere, extensive menu, full bar service, good for watching sports.
- Cons: Longer wait times, prices slightly higher than fast food, can be noisy.
- Ideal For: Travelers with more time, wanting a substantial meal and a drink, or looking to catch a game.
Pizza Restaurant (Check Current Listings)
Airports frequently have pizza options, which can be great for a larger party. Be sure to check the latest O’Hare airport directory to find what options are currently available in Concourse B.
- Pros: Easily shareable, can be customizable, often has a few different sizes available
- Cons: Lines can be long, prices can be inflated
- Ideal For: Families or groups
Coffee & Pastries: Caffeine Kicks and Sweet Treats
For many travelers, a good cup of coffee is essential before boarding a flight. Concourse B offers several options for satisfying your caffeine cravings and indulging in a sweet treat.
Starbucks
A ubiquitous coffee chain, Starbucks is a reliable choice for coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks. The Concourse B location offers the same familiar menu and experience.
- Pros: Wide variety of coffee and tea drinks, consistent quality, familiar brand.
- Cons: Can be crowded, prices are higher than some other coffee shops, limited savory options.
- Ideal For: Coffee lovers, those needing a caffeine boost, or wanting a quick pastry.
Dunkin’
Offering coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches, Dunkin’ is another popular option for a quick caffeine fix and a sweet or savory treat.
- Pros: Affordable prices, wide variety of donuts and coffee flavors, breakfast options available.
- Cons: Can be very busy, not the healthiest choice, quality can be inconsistent.
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers, those craving donuts, or looking for a quick breakfast.
Navigating Dietary Needs and Preferences
Traveling with dietary restrictions or preferences can present challenges, especially in an airport setting. Fortunately, Concourse B offers some options for those with specific needs.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While options may be more limited than in a typical restaurant setting, vegetarian travelers can often find salads, sandwiches, or veggie burgers at several of the establishments mentioned above. Look for menu items that clearly indicate vegetarian ingredients or ask staff about modifications. Vegan options may be more difficult to find, but some restaurants may offer plant-based milk alternatives for coffee or vegan-friendly snacks.
Gluten-Free Considerations
Gluten-free travelers should inquire about gluten-free bread or bun options at sandwich shops and burger restaurants. Salads are often a good choice, but be sure to check the ingredients of dressings and toppings.
Healthier Choices
Even when short on time, it’s possible to find healthier options in Concourse B. Look for salads, grilled chicken sandwiches, or fruit cups. Avoid fried foods and sugary drinks.
Considerations for Families on the Fly
Traveling with children requires extra planning and patience, especially when it comes to mealtime. Concourse B offers some family-friendly options to make the experience a little easier.
Kid-Friendly Menus
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus with familiar favorites like chicken nuggets, pizza, and mac and cheese.
Relaxed Atmospheres
Look for restaurants with a more relaxed and casual atmosphere where children can feel comfortable.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Eating Well Without Breaking the Bank
Airport food can be notoriously expensive, but it’s possible to find affordable options in Concourse B.
Affordable Options
McDonald’s, Dunkin’, and newsstands offer some of the most budget-friendly choices.
Saving Money Tips
Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to avoid overspending on airport food. Fill up your water bottle at a water fountain.
Technology to the Rescue: Mobile Ordering and Wi-Fi
Take advantage of technology to streamline your dining experience in Concourse B. Many restaurants offer mobile ordering through their apps, allowing you to place your order ahead of time and skip the line. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the airport, allowing you to browse menus and read reviews.
Making the Most of Your Concourse B Dining Experience
Here are a few final tips for navigating the dining scene in Concourse B:
Consult Airport Maps
Check the O’Hare Airport website or app for a map of Concourse B to locate restaurants.
Factor in Wait Times
Especially during peak travel times, expect longer lines and wait times.
Read Reviews
Check online reviews on sites like Yelp or Google to get recent feedback from other travelers.
Ask for Recommendations
Don’t hesitate to ask airport staff or fellow travelers for their favorite spots.
Final Thoughts
Finding a satisfying meal in O’Hare’s Concourse B doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a little planning and this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the options and find the perfect bite to fuel your journey. Remember to account for your time constraints, dietary needs, and budget, and don’t be afraid to explore the different culinary offerings available. By using these tips, you can transform your airport dining experience from a dreaded chore into a pleasant and enjoyable part of your travel day.
Disclaimer: Restaurant options and availability are subject to change. Please verify information with O’Hare Airport directly before your trip. Last updated: October 26, 2023.
